The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national unity, peace, stability and democratic governance following high-level discussions with a Special Envoy of the Commonwealth Secretary-General and former President of Malawi, Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, who is on an official visit to the country.
The discussions were led by the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities, Palamagamba Kabudi, and focused on Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions while maintaining peace, unity and inclusive development.
The meeting took place at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, April 9, 2026, shortly after the envoy paid a courtesy call to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mahamoud Thabit Kombo, marking the official start of his programme in Tanzania.
During the engagement, the government delegation provided an overview of Tanzania’s governance journey since independence in 1961, highlighting the country’s long-standing emphasis on unity, peace and stability as key pillars of national development.
The delegation also outlined ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening democratic practices, enhancing accountability and promoting citizen participation in national development processes.
The government further emphasized its continued commitment to safeguarding human rights, strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that all citizens are able to participate fully in political, social and economic activities in a peaceful environment.
Officials noted that these efforts are part of broader national strategies to build an inclusive economy and strengthen national cohesion.
The Special Envoy, Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, was briefed on these developments and received detailed explanations on Tanzania’s political and governance systems, as well as ongoing institutional reforms.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of dialogue and cooperation between Commonwealth member states in promoting shared democratic values and good governance.
The government described the meeting as constructive and productive, noting that it helped the envoy gain a clearer understanding of Tanzania’s political environment and its continued efforts to maintain stability while advancing democratic governance.
Officials further noted that the engagement strengthened mutual understanding between Tanzania and the Commonwealth.
As part of his wider programme in the country, the Special Envoy has also been engaging with key political and governance stakeholders.
On April 10, 2026, he met with the Registrar of Political Parties, retired Justice Francis Mutungi, as well as leaders and representatives from a wide range of political parties.
The consultations brought together political parties including ACT-Wazalendo, National League for Democracy (NLD), United Democratic Party (UDP), National Reconstruction Alliance (NRA), NCCR-Mageuzi, Sauti ya Umma (SAU), Alliance for Democratic Change (ADC), Alliance for African Farmers Party (AAFP), ADA-TADEA, Democratic Party (DP), Tanzania Labour Party (TLP), Union for Multiparty Democracy (UMD), United People’s Democratic Party (UPDP), Chama cha Kijamii (CCK), Demokrasia Makini, Chama cha Ukombozi wa Umma (CHAUMA) and Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA).
These meetings provided a platform for discussions on Tanzania’s multiparty democracy, political participation and the broader governance environment. Political stakeholders were able to share views on the country’s democratic progress and institutional development, while also engaging in dialogue with the Commonwealth envoy on areas of mutual interest.
In addition to meetings with political actors, the Special Envoy is expected to hold consultations with a wide range of senior national leaders and institutions.
These include the Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into post-election matters, retired Chief Justice Mohamed Othman Chande, former Prime Minister and First Vice President Joseph Warioba, representatives of civil society organisations, and electoral authorities.
He is also scheduled to meet the Chairperson of the Zanzibar Electoral Commission, George Joseph Kazi, leaders of political parties, senior members of the judiciary, and officials from the National Electoral Commission led by retired Justice Jacobs Mwambegele.
Further engagements include meetings with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mussa Azzan Zungu, the Chief Justice of Tanzania George Mcheche Masaju, and senior leaders of the ruling party, including the Secretary General of CCM, Ambassador Dr. Asha-Rose Migiro.
The envoy is also expected to hold high-level talks with President Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Zanzibar Hussein Ali Mwinyi, and former President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, in engagements aimed at strengthening dialogue and deepening cooperation.
The ongoing visit is expected to further enhance relations between Tanzania and the Commonwealth, while reinforcing shared commitments to democracy, peace, stability and inclusive development.
